I am writing to bring to your attention the case of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman from Sheikhupura, near Lahore, Pakistan who has been sentenced to death by hanging for allegedly defaming the Prophet Mohammed. (Telegraph, 9 November 2010)

“Asia Bibi, a 45-year-old mother-of-five, denies blasphemy and told investigators that she was being persecuted for her faith in a country where Christians face routine harassment and discrimination. Christian groups and human rights campaigners condemned the verdict and called for the blasphemy laws to be repealed. Her supporters say she will now appeal against the sentence handed down in a local court in the town of Sheikhupura, near Lahore, Pakistan.”

Muslims want to portray themselves as “peace loving”, yet across the world, including Pakistan, we see many instances of Christians and other non-Muslims being persecuted with violence and intolerance and terrorist attacks are done proudly in the name of Islam.

What kind of religion is it that forces people to believe?

I therefore request, your Excellency, to bring Mrs Asia Bibi’s case to the attention of your government with the recommendation that it be dropped and that she is released immediately.